The Current Probate Judge is Philip Alan B. Mayer, who was elected to office in November of 2002 and took office in February of 2003. Probate Court provides legal proceeding's to determine the decedent's assets, their value and the method of distribution to heirs as provided by law. This proceeding is called Estate Administration, and occurs whether the person dies with or without a will. Some other duties of the court are: Guardianships, Trusts, Civil Commitments, Adoptions, Name Changes, and Birth Registrations/Corrections.

Probate Court also issues Marriage Licenses.

LEGAL PRACTICE is restricted, by law, to attorneys who are licensed by the Supreme Court of Ohio. If an individual wishes to handle his or her own case, he or she may do so, but may not represent others. Deputy Clerks are prevented, by law, from giving legal advice.

For legal help you may contact the Lawyer Referral at 419-524-9944, this service will provide you with information on attorneys that can assist you with Probate Court Proceedings in Richland County. If you cannot afford an attorney you may contact Legal Aid at 888-534-1432 (Lucas County residents call 419-724-0460).